Use of NK-1 receptor antagonists in pruritus

ABSTRACT

The invention relates to methods for treating pruritus with an NK-1 receptor antagonist. The invention further relates to pharmaceutical compositions comprising NK-1 receptor antagonist.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The invention relates to methods for treating acute or chronic pruritus with an NK-1 receptor antagonist. The invention further relates to pharmaceutical compositions comprising NK-1 receptor antagonist.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Pruritus, or itch, is an uncomfortable skin sensation that provokes a desire to scratch. Although itch may be acute, for example, from an insect sting, chronic pruritus originates from many different causes. It is a seriously debilitating condition, comparable to chronic pain, which negatively impacts quality of life.

Chronic pruritus affects millions of people worldwide, although solid epidemiological data is very limited. For example, one study reported that 8-10% of the population of Oslo suffer from chronic pruritus from all causes (F. Dalgard et al., J. Investig. Dermatol. Symp. Proc., 2004, 9(2):120-5). Patients with certain diseases and conditions report high incidences of chronic itch, including those with psoriasis (78-84%), Hodgkin's disease (25-35%), dialysis patients (22%), and polycythaemica vera (48%) (M. Metz and S. Ständer, CME Dermatol., 2008; 3(3):124-143). Chronic pruritus is also a prevalent symptom in cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (68-93%), a disease that includes mycosis fungoides and Sézary syndrome (N. Meyer et al., Acta Derm. Venereol., 2010, 90:12-17). Pruritus is the most common dermatological complaint in elderly patients (S. Beauregard and B. A. Gilchrest, Arch. Dermatol., 1987, 123:1638-43). Itch is often the side effect of certain drugs, such as EGF receptor antagonists.

Antihistamines can sometimes effectively treat itch due to acute urticaria, but many chronic pruritic diseases respond poorly to conventional H1 receptor antagonists (Tey H. L. and G. Yosipovitch; Br. J. Dermatol., 2011, 165(1):5-17). In addition to marginal efficacy, antihistamines can also cause intolerable drowsiness. Other current therapies possess various limitations. For example, anticonvulsants such as gabapentin inhibit spinal mechanisms in the perception of itch, but their use is limited due to their slow onset of action (5-6 weeks) (Metz and Ständer, 2008). Opiate receptor antagonists such as naloxone, nalmefene, and naltrexone decreased pruritus symptoms in patients with liver and kidney disease, although significant central nervous and gastrointestinal side effects occurred (Metz and Ständer, 2008; N. V. Bergasa et al., Hepatology, 2006, 44(5):1317-23).

Substance P, the endogenous ligand for the neurokinin-1 (NK-1) receptor, is a significant mediator of pruritus (T. Andoh et al., J. Pharmacol. Exp. Ther., 1998, 286:1140-5). Intradermal injection of substance P elicits an itch sensation in human subjects, and an associated itch response in mice. The substance P-induced itch-associated response in mice is not inhibited by antihistamines (B. Amatya et al., Skin Pharmacol. Physiol., 2010; 23:133-138; C. Weidner et al., J. Invest. Dermatol., 2000, 115:1015-1020). In an experiment designed to study the role of substance P in pruritus, Ohmura et al. reported that tachykinin NK-1 receptor antagonist, BIIF 1149 CL, inhibited scratching behavior in a picrylchloride-induced dermatitis model in NC/Nga mice (Eur. J. Pharmacol., 2004, 491:191-194; U.S. Patent Application No. 2003/100565).

Aprepitant (Emend©), an NK-1 receptor antagonist, is approved by the FDA for use in the prevention of chemically induced nausea and vomiting (emesis) after chemotherapy. Duval and Dubertret first reported that oral aprepitant (80 mg daily) had utility in treating pruritus in three patients with Sézary syndrome (N. Engl. J. Med., 2009, 361(14):1415-6). Torres et al. disclosed similar results (J. Am. Acad. Dermatol., 2012; 66(1):e14-5). Ständer et al. conducted a small, open-label study which demonstrated that aprepitant significantly decreased chronic pruritus caused by conditions such as atopic diathesis and prurigo nodularis. In this study, twenty previously untreatable patients were given a daily dose of 80 mg for 3 to 13 days. Eighty percent of the patients experienced a considerable reduction in itch intensity (S. Ständer, et al., PLoS One, 2010, 5:6, e10968). However, Wallengren conducted a follow-up double-blind study based on Ständer's work testing a single dose of topical aprepitant blended at a 5% concentration in a lipophilic vehicle in patients suffering from chronic pruritus of various etiologies. Although the drug was absorbed into the skin, the patients' itch was not alleviated (J. Wallengren, Arch. Dermatol., 2012, 148(8):957-9).

Although oral aprepitant is generally well-tolerated, it is extremely expensive, limiting its use in chronic pruritus (Tey, 2011). Further, aprepitant is a moderate inhibitor as well as an inducer of CYP3A4 and CYP2C9, indicating that drug-drug interactions with chemotherapeutic agents and corticosteroids must be considered (Torres, 2012). Mir and Coriat have suggested that the risk of drug-drug interactions with aprepitant is high because it can alter the activity of cytochrome P450 3A4 isoform (CYP-3A4), an enzyme involved in the metabolism of a range of commonly prescribed drugs, including tyrosine-kinase inhibitors, either inducing or inhibiting the CYP-3A4, depending on which drugs are given concomitantly. Tyrosine-kinase inhibitors do not induce frequent nausea and emesis; therefore, clinical experience with concomitant administration of aprepitant and these drugs is scarce. Furthermore, the pharmacokinetics of tyrosine-kinase inhibitors varies widely between patients, and drug-drug interactions are common (O. Mir and R. Coriat, The Lancet, 2012, 13:964-965). Thus, the need for additional, safe treatments for acute and chronic pruritus exists.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In one aspect, this invention provides a method of treating pruritus in a patient in need of such treatment comprising administering to said patient a therapeutically effective amount of 3-[(3aR,4R,5S,7aS)-5-[(1R)-1-[3,5-bis(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]ethoxy]-4-(4-fluorophenyl)-1,3,3a,4,5,6,7,7a-octahydroisoindol-2-yl]cyclopent-2-en-1-one or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or solvate thereof. In one embodiment, the therapeutically effective amount comprises a dosage of 0.10 mg, 0.15 mg, 0.20 mg, 0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, 0.75 mg, 1 mg, 2 mg, 2.5 mg, 3 mg, 4 mg, 5 mg, 6 mg, 7 mg, 8 mg, 9 mg, 10 mg, 15 mg, 20 mg, 25 mg, or 30 mg one or more times a day. In another embodiment, the therapeutically effective amount comprises a dosage of 0.25 mg, 1 mg, or 5 mg once a day. In a further embodiment, the therapeutically effective amount comprises a dosage of from about 0.1 mg to about 30 mg or from about 1 mg to about 7.5 mg. In another embodiment, the therapeutically effective amount is administered orally in the form of a tablet. In a further embodiment, the therapeutically effective amount is administered once a day at bedtime. In another embodiment, the therapeutically effective amount is administered once a day, once every other day, once every third day, once every fourth day, or once a week.

In another aspect, this invention provides a method of treating pruritus whereby 3-[(3aR,4R,5S,7aS)-5-[(1R)-1-[3,5-bis(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]ethoxy]-4-(4-fluorophenyl)-1,3,3a,4,5,6,7,7a-octahydroisoindol-2-yl]cyclopent-2-en-1-one or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or solvate thereof is administered orally to a patient in need of such treatment according to a schedule, wherein a least one loading dose is first administered, and, second, at least one therapeutically effect maintenance dose is administered. In one embodiment, the loading dose is five times, four times, three times, or two times the maintenance dose. In another embodiment, the loading dose is three times the maintenance dose. In a further embodiment, the loading dose is administered on day 1 and the maintenance dose is administered on day 2 and thereafter. In another embodiment, the loading dose and the maintenance dose are administered at bedtime. In another embodiment, the method further comprises administering a second loading dose prior to administering the maintenance dose. In one embodiment, the loading dose is three times the maintenance dose and the second loading dose is two times the maintenance dose. In a further embodiment, the therapeutically effective maintenance dose is 0.10 mg, 0.15 mg, 0.20 mg, 0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, 0.75 mg, 1 mg, 2 mg, 2.5 mg, 3 mg, 4 mg, 5 mg, 6 mg, 7 mg, 8 mg, 9 mg, 10 mg, 15 mg, 20 mg, 25 mg, or 30 mg administered one or more times a day. In another embodiment, the therapeutically effective maintenance dose comprises a dosage of 0.25 mg, 1 mg, or 5 mg administered once a day. In a further embodiment, the therapeutically effective maintenance dose comprises a dosage from about 0.1 mg to about 30 mg or from about 1 mg to about 7.5 mg. In another embodiment, the therapeutically effective maintenance dose is administered once a day, once every other day, once every third day, once every fourth day, or once a week.

In one aspect, this invention provides a pharmaceutical composition for the treatment of pruritus comprising 3-[(3aR,4R,5S,7aS)-5-[(1R)-1-[3,5-bis(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]ethoxy]-4-(4-fluorophenyl)-1,3,3a,4,5,6,7,7a-octahydroisoindol-2-yl]cyclopent-2-en-1-one or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or solvate thereof and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. In one embodiment, the pharmaceutical composition is formulated as a tablet comprising Compound 1 or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or solvate thereof and one or more diluents, disintegrants, surfactants or lubricants. In another embodiment, the composition comprises a capsule filled with a solution comprising Compound 1 or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or solvate thereof and an amphiphilic agent. In a further embodiment, the amphiphilic agent is a fatty acid ester of glycerol, propylene glycol or sorbitol. In another embodiment, the pharmaceutical composition comprises 0.10 mg, 0.15 mg, 0.20 mg, 0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, 0.75 mg, 1 mg, 2 mg, 2.5 mg, 3 mg, 4 mg, 5 mg, 6 mg, 7 mg, 8 mg, 9 mg, 10 mg, 15 mg, 20 mg, 25 mg, or 30 mg of Compound 1 or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or solvate thereof. In another embodiment, the composition comprises 0.25 mg, 1 mg, or 5 mg of Compound 1 or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or solvate thereof.

In another aspect, this invention provides a method of treating acute or chronic pruritus in a patient in need of such treatment comprising administering to said patient a therapeutically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition comprising 3-[(3aR,4R,5S,7aS)-5-[(1R)-1-[3,5-bis(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]ethoxy]-4-(4-fluorophenyl)-1,3,3a,4,5,6,7,7a-octahydroisoindol-2-yl]cyclopent-2-en-1-one or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or solvate thereof and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. In one embodiment, the method involves treatment with a pharmaceutical composition formulated as a tablet comprising Compound 1 or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or solvate thereof and one or more diluents, disintegrants, surfactants or lubricants. In another embodiment, the method involves administration of a composition comprising a capsule filled with a solution comprising Compound 1 or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or solvate thereof and an amphiphilic agent. In a further embodiment, the amphiphilic agent is a fatty acid ester of glycerol, propylene glycol or sorbitol.

In another embodiment, the method involves treatment with a pharmaceutical composition comprising 0.10 mg, 0.15 mg, 0.20 mg, 0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, 0.75 mg, 1 mg, 2 mg, 2.5 mg, 3 mg, 4 mg, 5 mg, 6 mg, 7 mg, 8 mg, 9 mg, 10 mg, 15 mg, 20 mg, 25 mg, or 30 mg of Compound 1 or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or solvate thereof. In another embodiment, the composition comprises 0.25 mg, 1 mg, or 5 mg of Compound 1 or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or solvate thereof.

Other objects of the invention may be apparent to one skilled in the art upon reading the following specification and claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The novel features of the invention are set forth with particularity in the appended claims. A better understanding of the features and advantages of the present invention will be obtained by reference to the following detailed description that sets forth illustrative embodiments, in which the principles of the invention are utilized, and the accompanying drawings of which:

FIG. 1 depicts a synthetic scheme for serlopitant, Compound 1.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application belongs. It must be noted that as used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms “a”, “and”, and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

Reference will now be made in detail to certain preferred methods of treatment, compounds and methods of administering these compounds. The invention is not limited to those preferred compounds and methods, but rather is defined by the claim(s) issuing herefrom.

Introduction

Serlopitant is a neurokinin-1 (NK-1) receptor antagonist. The present invention provides a method for treating chronic pruritus and related conditions using serlopitant or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or hydrate thereof. Chemically, the generic name serlopitant refers to the compound of Compound 1:

The I.U.P.A.C. name for the compound is 3-[(3aR,4R,5S,7aS)-5-[(1R)-1-[3,5-bis(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]ethoxy]-4-(4-fluorophenyl)-1,3,3a,4,5,6,7,7a-octahydroisoindol-2-yl]cyclopent-2-en-1-one. Alternatively, Compound 1 may be named 3-[(3aR,4R,5S,7aS)-5-{(1R)-1-[3,5-bis(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]ethoxy}-4-(4-fluorophenyl)octahydro-2H-isoindol-2-yl]cyclopent-2-en-1-one. For purposes of the present invention, it is understood that any of these designations for Compound 1 may be interchangeably used and have the same meaning.

Serlopitant has previously been disclosed as a neurokinin-1 (NK-1) receptor antagonist, an inhibitor of tachykinin and, in particular, of substance P (J. Jiang, et al., J. Med. Chem., 2009, 52:3039-3046)). Neurokinin receptors are part of the larger family of G-protein coupled receptors that elicit many of their effects via activation of the inositol phosphate signal transduction pathway. NK-1 receptors are present in both the central and peripheral nervous system and in vascular endothelial cells, muscle and cells of the immune system. Compound 1 is unusually selective (>39,000 fold) for the cloned human NK-1 receptor over the cloned human NK-2 and NK-3 receptors, as demonstrated using Chinese hamster ovary cells stably expressing the respective receptors (Jiang et al., 2009). Jiang et al. showed that serlopitant binds to the human NK-1 receptor with a K_(d) of 46 μM and that it displaces substance P binding at the same receptor with an IC₅₀ of 61 μM.

Compound 1 is a weak reversible inhibitor of human CYP-3A4, 2C8, 2C9, 2C19, 2D6, and 1A2 enzymes, the IC₅₀ values of which are 39, 58, 30, 29, 35, and >100 μM, respectively. Serlopitant did not significantly induce CYP-3A4 mRNA in three individual preparations of human hepatocytes. These data suggest that serlopitant will have minimal drug-drug interaction liability in humans and that any drug-drug interactions will be reduced in comparison with other NK-1 receptor antagonists. Although broad-based counter-screening of serlopitant in more than 145 assays identified a number of weak activities between 1 and 10 μM, no assays for which IC₅₀<1 μM were observed. Therefore, off-target activities were more than 20000-fold less potent than hNK-1 activity (Jiang et al., 2009).

It has been suggested serlopitant and its analogs would be useful in the prevention and treatment of a variety of clinical conditions characterized by the presence of an excess of tachykinin, in particular substance P, activity. Serlopitant has been disclosed as a treatment for emesis and for urinary incontinence (U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,217,731, 7,345,083, 7,544,815, 7,645,790, and 7,893,091, the disclosures of which are herein incorporated by reference; U.S. Published Application Nos. US 2009/0270477, US 2010/0113469, and US 2010/0209496, the disclosures of which are herein incorporated by reference; and PCT Publication WO 2007/146224, the disclosure of which is herein incorporated by reference).

The safety and tolerability of serlopitant have been evaluated in several human clinical trials for the treatment or prevention of with overactive bladder (OAB). In one investigation, a total of 557 patients with OAB were randomized into this double-blind, placebo-controlled and active-controlled (tolterodine), dose-ranging study. Serlopitant at 0.25 and 4 mg daily significantly reduced the number of daily micturitions compared with placebo. There were no drug-related serious adverse experiences and the drug was generally well tolerated. However, serlopitant did not show a dose response relationship with micturition frequency, and did not significantly influence the secondary efficacy end points of urinary urgency, urge incontinence and total incontinence. Tolterodine was numerically more effective than serlopitant at all efficacy end points and statistically significantly more effective than placebo. Serlopitant was not associated with the adverse experience of dry mouth common in patients receiving tolterodine, a muscarinic antagonist. (See: Frenkl, T. L. et al., J. Urology, 2009, 181(4), Suppl. S, p. 676; Frenkl, T. L. et al., Neurourol. Urodyn., 2009, 28(2):143-144; Frenkl, T. L. et al., European Urology Supplements, 2009, 8(4):134; Frenkl, Tara L, et al., J. Urology, 2010, 184(2):616-622.)

Chemical Description of Serlopitant

The term “pharmaceutically acceptable salts” refers to salts prepared from pharmaceutically acceptable non-toxic bases or acids including inorganic or organic bases and inorganic or organic acids. Salts derived from inorganic bases include aluminum, ammonium, calcium, copper, ferric, ferrous, lithium, magnesium, manganic salts, manganous, potassium, sodium, zinc, and the like. Particularly preferred are the ammonium, calcium, magnesium, potassium, and sodium salts. Salts in the solid form may exist in more than one crystal structure, and may also be in the form of hydrates. Salts derived from pharmaceutically acceptable organic non-toxic bases include salts of primary, secondary, and tertiary amines, substituted amines including naturally occurring substituted amines, cyclic amines, and basic ion exchange resins, such as arginine, betaine, caffeine, choline, N,N′-dibenzylethylene-diamine, diethylamine, 2-diethylaminoethanol, 2-dimethylamino-ethanol, ethanolamine, ethylenediamine, N-ethyl-morpholine, N-ethylpiperidine, glucamine, glucosamine, histidine, hydrabamine, isopropylamine, lysine, methylglucamine, morpholine, piperazine, piperidine, polyamine resins, procaine, purines, theobromine, triethylamine, trimethylamine, tripropylamine, tromethamine, and the like. When the compound of the present invention is basic, salts may be prepared from pharmaceutically acceptable non-toxic acids, including inorganic and organic acids. Such acids include acetic, benzenesulfonic, benzoic, camphorsulfonic, citric, ethanesulfonic, fumaric, gluconic, glutamic, hydrobromic, hydrochloric, isethionic, lactic, maleic, malic, mandelic, ethanesulfonic, mucic, nitric, pamoic, pantothenic, phosphoric, succinic, sulfuric, tartaric, p-toluenesulfonic acid, and the like. Particularly preferred are citric, hydrobromic, hydrochloric, maleic, phosphoric, sulfuric, fumaric, and tartaric acids. It will be understood that, as used herein, references to the compounds of the present invention are meant to also include the pharmaceutically acceptable salts.

The term “solvate” refers to an aggregate that consists of a solute ion or molecule with one or more solvent molecules. “Solvates” include hydrates, that is, aggregates of a compound of interest with water. It will be understood that, as used herein, references to the compounds of the present invention are meant to also include the solvates.

Chemical Synthesis.

Serlopitant may be prepared as described by Jiang et al. (J. Med. Chem. 2009, 52:3039-3046), which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety. Alternatively, the method of Kuethe et al., as described in U.S. Pat. No. 7,544,815, or Bunda et al., as described in U.S. Pat. No. 7,217,731, both of which are herein incorporated by reference in their entirety, may be used.

The method of Kuethe et al. is depicted in FIG. 1. Briefly, commercially available 4-fluorophenylacetic acid g (Sigma-Aldrich Co. LLC, St. Louis, Mo.) is reacted with thionyl chloride in DMF/toluene to yield acid chloride (2). The acid chloride (6) is then reacted with the hydrochloride salt of the Weinreb amine (CH₃NHOCH₃.HCl) in the presence of sodium hydroxide to give 2-(4-fluorophenyl)-N-methoxy-N-methylacetamide (4). A vinyl Grignard reaction converts (4) to 1-(4-fluorophenyl)but-3-en-2-one (5). TES dienyl ether (6) is produced from the reaction of (5) with chlorotriethylsilane (TESCl) in the presence of iPr₂NEt₂.

Commercially available fumaryl chloride and two equivalents of (−)-menthol (both Sigma-Aldrich) are reacted to yield di-(−)-menthylfumarate (7). A Diels-Alder reaction between (6) and (7) produces (8). Any E-isomer of the diene (<5%) that is present does not react in the Diels-Alder reaction. Deprotection and epimerization of (8) in acid gives (9). The desilylation of (8) initially gave a mixture of 2,3-cis- and 2,3-trans-ketones, which, driven by crystallization of desired (9), isomerized to the predominantly trans compound. Reduction of (9) with lithium tri-t-butoxy aluminum hydride (Li(t-BuO)₃AlH), followed by lithium aluminum hydride (LiAlH₄), produces triol (10), which is then protected with n-propyl sulfonyl chloride (nPrSO₂Cl₂) to give (11).

S-BTBA ((S)-1-[3,5-bis(trifluoromethyl)]phenylethanol)) (12) is reacted with trichloroacetonitrile (Sigma-Aldrich) in the presence of base 1,8-diazabicycloundec-7-ene (DBU) to produce imidate (13). HBF₄ is used to catalyze the reaction of (11) with (13) to yield ether (14). Treatment with allylamine and bis-propylsulfonate cyclizes (14) to allylamine-protected pyrrolidine (15). Removal of the allyl protecting group with thiosalicylic acid and 1,4-bis(diphenylphosphino)butane (dppb), followed by bis(dibenzylideneacetone)palladium (Pd₂(dba)₃) and isolation with acetic acid gives crystalline (16). Finally, (16) is reacted with 1,3-cyclopentanedione (Sigma-Aldrich) in isopropyl alcohol to give Compound 1. Compound 1 is a white to off-white powder. It is freely soluble in methanol, soluble in ethanol, slightly soluble in isopropyl acetate, sparingly soluble in isopropyl alcohol, ethyl acetate, and acetonitrile, and insoluble in water.

Pharmaceutical Compositions

Compositions containing serlopitant or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or solvate thereof as the active ingredient may be advantageously used to treat chronic pruritus. While it is possible for serlopitant or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or solvate thereof to be administered alone, it is preferable to present it as a formulation. The compositions, or dosage forms, may be administered or applied singly, or in combination with other agents. The formulations may also deliver serlopitant to a patient in combination with another pharmaceutically active agent.

The term “composition” as used herein is intended to encompass a product comprising specified ingredients in predetermined amounts or proportions, as well as any product which results, directly or indirectly, from combination of the specified ingredients in the specified amounts. This term in relation to pharmaceutical compositions is intended to encompass a product comprising one or more active ingredients, and an optional pharmaceutically acceptable carrier comprising inert ingredients, as well as any product which results, directly or indirectly, from combination, complexation or aggregation of any two or more of the ingredients, or from dissociation of one or more of the ingredients, or from other types of reactions or interactions of one or more of the ingredients. In general, pharmaceutical compositions are prepared by uniformly and intimately bringing the active ingredient into association with a liquid carrier or a finely divided solid carrier or both, and then, if necessary, shaping the product into the desired formulation. In the pharmaceutical composition the active object compound is included in an amount sufficient to produce the desired effect upon the process or condition of diseases. Accordingly, the pharmaceutical compositions of the present invention encompass any composition made by admixing a compound of the present invention and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. Said compositions are prepared according to conventional mixing, granulating, or coating methods, respectively, and contain about 0.1 to 75%, preferably about 1 to 50%, of the active ingredient.

By “pharmaceutically acceptable” it is meant the carrier, diluent or excipient must be compatible with the other ingredients of the formulation and not deleterious to the recipient thereof. Pharmaceutical compositions intended for oral use may be prepared according to any method known to the art for the manufacture of pharmaceutical compositions and such compositions may contain one or more agents selected from the group consisting of sweetening agents, flavoring agents, coloring agents and preserving agents in order to provide pharmaceutically elegant and palatable preparations.

Tablets contain the active ingredient in admixture with non-toxic pharmaceutically acceptable excipients which are suitable for the manufacture of tablets. These excipients may be for example, inert diluents, such as calcium carbonate, sodium carbonate, lactose, calcium phosphate or sodium phosphate; granulating and disintegrating agents, for example, cornstarch, or alginic acid; binding agents, for example starch, gelatin or acacia, and lubricating agents, for example magnesium stearate, stearic acid or talc. The tablets may be uncoated or they may be coated by known techniques to delay disintegration and absorption in the gastrointestinal tract and thereby provide a sustained action over a longer period. A tablet may be made by compressing or molding the active ingredient optionally with one or more pharmaceutically acceptable ingredients. Compressed tablets may be prepared by compressing, in a suitable machine, the active ingredient in a free-flowing form such as a powder or granules, optionally mixed with a binder, lubricant, inert diluent, surface active, or dispensing agent. Molded tablets may be made by molding, in a suitable machine, a mixture of the powdered active ingredient and a suitable carrier moistened with an inert liquid diluent.

Compositions for oral use may also be presented as hard gelatin capsules wherein the active ingredient is mixed with an inert solid diluent, for example, calcium carbonate, calcium phosphate or kaolin, or as soft gelatin capsules wherein the active ingredient is mixed with water or an oil medium, for example peanut oil, liquid paraffin, or olive oil. In particular, a pharmaceutical composition of the present invention may comprise a liquid-filled capsule dosage form in which the active ingredient is in solution in certain combinations of liquid and semi-solid excipients. In one embodiment, the invention is directed to a solution comprising the active agent 3-[(3aR,4R,5S,7aS)-5-{(1R)-1-[3,5-bis(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]ethoxy}-4-(4-fluorophenyl)-octahydro-2H-isoindol-2-yl]cyclopent-2-en-1-one (Compound 1) or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or solvate thereof, and an amphiphilic agent, said amphiphilic agent being a fatty acid ester of glycerol, propylene glycol or sorbitol, as described in U.S. Published Application No. 2010/0209496 (Dakou et al.), which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety. Preferably, the amphiphilic agent consists essentially of mono- and di-glycerides of C8 to C12 saturated fatty acids and mixtures thereof.

Compositions for oral administration may also be formulated as aqueous suspensions containing the active ingredient in admixture with excipients suitable for the manufacture of aqueous suspensions. Oily suspensions may be formulated by suspending the active ingredient in a suitable oil. Oil-in-water emulsions may also be employed. Dispersible powders and granules suitable for preparation of an aqueous suspension by the addition of water provide the active ingredient in admixture with a dispersing or wetting agent, suspending agent and one or more preservatives.

The active ingredient of the present invention may be administered in an oral sustained release formulation. “Sustained release” refers to release of an active agent from a dosage form at a rate effective to achieve a therapeutic amount of the agent, or active metabolite thereof, in the systemic blood circulation over a prolonged period of time relative to that achieved by oral administration of a conventional formulation of the agent. Release of the agent occurs over an extended period of hours, for example, over a period of at least 6 hours, over a period of at least 8 hours, over a period of at least 12 hours, or over a period of at least 24 hours.

Suitable topical formulations and dosage forms include ointments, creams, gels, lotions, pastes, and the like, as described in Remington: The Science and Practice of Pharmacy (21^(st) Edition, University of the Sciences in Philadelphia, 2005). Ointments are semi-solid preparations that are typically based on petrolatum or other petroleum derivatives. The specific ointment base to be used, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, is one that will provide for optimum drug delivery, and, preferably, will provide for other desired characteristics as well, e.g., emolliency or the like. Creams are viscous liquids or semisolid emulsions, either oil-in-water or water-in-oil. Cream bases are water-washable, and contain an oil phase, an emulsifier and an aqueous phase. The oil phase, also called the “internal” phase, is generally comprised of petrolatum and a fatty alcohol such as cetyl or stearyl alcohol. The aqueous phase usually, although not necessarily, exceeds the oil phase in volume, and generally contains a humectant. The emulsifier in a cream formulation is generally a nonionic, anionic, cationic or amphoteric surfactant. Gels are semisolid, suspension-type systems. Single-phase gels contain organic macromolecules (polymers) distributed substantially uniformly throughout the carrier liquid, which is typically aqueous, but also, preferably, contain an alcohol such as ethanol or isopropanol and, optionally, an oil. In order to prepare a uniform gel, dispersing agents such as alcohol or glycerin can be added, or the gelling agent can be dispersed by trituration, mechanical mixing or stirring, or combinations thereof. Lotions are preparations to be applied to the skin surface without friction, and are typically liquid or semiliquid preparations in which solid particles, including the active agent, are present in a water or alcohol base. Lotions are usually suspensions of finely divided solids and will typically contain suspending agents to produce better dispersions as well as compounds useful for localizing and holding the active agent in contact with the skin. Pastes are semisolid dosage forms in which the active agent is suspended in a suitable base. Depending on the nature of the base, pastes are divided between fatty pastes or those made from single-phase aqueous gels.

Various additives, known to those skilled in the art, may be included in the topical formulations. For example, solvents, including relatively small amounts of alcohol, may be used to solubilize certain drug substances. Other optional additives include opacifiers, antioxidants, fragrance, colorant, gelling agents, thickening agents, stabilizers, surfactants and the like. Other agents may also be added, such as antimicrobial agents, to prevent spoilage upon storage, i.e., to inhibit growth of microbes such as yeasts and molds. For those drugs having an unusually low rate of permeation through the skin or mucosal tissue, it may be desirable to include a permeation enhancer in the formulation. The formulation may also contain irritation-mitigating additives to minimize or eliminate the possibility of skin irritation or skin damage resulting from the drug, the enhancer, or other components of the dosage form. The formulations may also contain ether physiologically acceptable excipients or other minor additives, such as fragrances, dyes, emulsifiers, buffers, cooling agents (e.g. menthol), antibiotics, stabilizers or the like. In some instances, one component may serve more than one function.

The concentration of the active agent in a topical formulation can vary a great deal, and will depend on a variety of factors, including the disease or condition to be treated, the nature and activity of the active agent, the desired effect, possible adverse reactions, the ability and speed of the active agent to reach its intended target, and other factors within the particular knowledge of the patient and physician. The formulations will typically contain on the order of about 0.1 wt % to 50 wt % active agent, preferably about 0.1 wt % to 5 wt % active agent, optimally about 5 wt % to 20 wt % active agent.

The pharmaceutical compositions of the present invention may be formulated as a depot formulation for administration via intramuscular or subcutaneous injection. Depot formulations are efficient, well-tolerated, sustained or delayed release compositions of the active ingredient that are therapeutically effective for a number of weeks, such as at least one week, at least two weeks, at least three weeks, at least four weeks, at least five weeks, or at least six weeks or more. In addition to the active agent, additional ingredients may be used in the depot formulations of the present invention including surfactants, solubilizers, emulsifiers, preservatives, isotonicity agents, dispersing agents, wetting agents, fillers, solvents, buffers, stabilizers, lubricants, and thickening agents. A combination of additional ingredients may also be used. The amount of the active ingredient in a depot formulation will depend upon the severity of the pruritus being treated.

The compositions of the present invention may be presented in unit dosage form and may be prepared by any of the methods well known in the art of pharmacy. The term “unit dosage form” is taken to mean a single dose wherein all active and inactive ingredients are combined in a suitable system, such that the patient or person administering the drug to the patient can open a single container or package with the entire dose contained therein, and does not have to mix any components together from two or more containers or packages. Typical examples of unit dosage forms are tablets or capsules for oral administration. These examples of unit dosage forms is not intended to be limiting in any way, but merely to represent typical examples in the pharmacy arts of unit dosage forms.

The compositions of the present invention may also be presented as a kit, whereby two or more components, which may be active or inactive ingredients, carriers, diluents, and the like, are provided with instructions for preparation of the actual dosage form by the patient or person administering the drug to the patient. Such kits may be provided with all necessary materials and ingredients contained therein, or they may contain instructions for using or making materials or components that must be obtained independently by the patient or person administering the drug to the patient.

Pruritus

Pruritus is a physiological perception within the sensory neuronal network in the skin which, along with pain and physical or mechanical stimuli, can serve as a warning system against potential bodily threats. Itching is an unpleasant sensation that can lead to scratching, but is independent of pain. The International Federation for the Study of Itch (IFSI) defines chronic pruritus (as opposed to acute pruritus) as itching that lasting six weeks or longer (S. Ständer et al., Acta Derm. Venereol., 2007, 87(4):291-4). Several factors in and on the skin can activate the sensory nerve fibers or modulate their activity and thus trigger, suppress, or exacerbate itching. Physical stimuli such as cold and heat modulate the perception of itching; painful heat and cold can significantly diminish it, while moderate cold intensifies it (Valet et al., J. Invest. Dermatol., 2008, 128(2):426-33.). Mechanical factors such as rubbing or scratching the skin can briefly suppress itching by activating nerve fibers that selectively activate and de-activate certain areas of the brain (Yosipovitch et al., J. Invest. Dermatol., 2008, 128(7):1806-11).

Chronic pruritus can seriously diminish the quality of life in its sufferers as it can be intractable and incapacitating. It is a seriously debilitating condition, comparable to chronic pain, which can lead to frustration, desperation and depression. Moreover, chronic scratching often produces open skin lesions, subject to primary or secondary infection, scarring and potential disfigurement. Chronic pruritus is often an indication of underlying disease and is always present in diseases such as urticaria and atopic dermatitis. Diagnosis of the underlying disease is desirable and clinical presentation, patient history, and patient self-evaluation form important parts of such diagnosis.

According to Arbeitsgemeinschaft der Wissenschaftlichen Medizinischen Fachgesellschaften (AWMF) (Association of the Scientific Medical Societies of Germany) guidelines, diseases and disorders with chronic pruritus as a symptom may be classified by whether the skin is inflamed or not inflamed (S. Ständer, Clin. Exp. Dermatol., 2006, 31(6):762-7). The IFSI further characterizes pruritus as dermatologic, systemic, neurogenic, psychogenic, mixed and other. Chronic pruritus on non-inflamed skin may result from dermatological diseases, including atopic diathesis, asteatosis, porphyria, suburticarial stages of solar injury, cholinergic, adrenergic urticaria, initial stage of mastocytosis, bullous pemphigoid, and Duhring's disease (dermatitis herpetiformis); from endocrine and metabolic disorders, such as chronic renal insufficiency and the dialysis needed treat it, hepatopathies with cholestasis, diabetes mellitus, malabsorption disorders, anorexia, gluten-enteropathies, hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, hyperparathyroidism, and perimenopausal pruritus; from infections including HIV infection, parasites, Helicobacter pylori, and helminth-related; from hemotological and lymphoproliferative diseases such as iron deficiency, polycythaemica vera, hypereosinophilia syndrome, myelodysplastic syndrome, Hodgkin's disease, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, plasmocytoma, and systemic mastocytosis; from solid malignant tumors including cervical, breast, prostate or large intestinal cancer, and carcinoid tumors; from neurological disorders such as brachioradial pruritus, notalgia paraesthetica, post-zoster neuralgia, vulvodynia, neuropathies of various origin, multiple sclerosis, tumors, abscesses, underperfusion, infarctions involving the CNS/spinal cord; from psychogenic disorders such as depression, schizophrenia, and tactile hallucinations; and from intrahepatic cholestasis in pregnant women (pruritus gravidarum).

Chronic pruritus on inflamed skin may be observed in patients with inflammatory skin disease including, but not limited to, atopic dermatitis, allergic, irritant contact dermatitis, exsiccation dermatitis, nummular and dyshidrotic dermatitis, lichen planus, lichen sclerosus et atrophicus, polymorphous light eruption psoriasis, Grover's disease, mucinosis, mastocytosis, and urticaria; infectious skin diseases such as mycoses, bacterial and viral infections, scabies, pediculosis, insect bites, and folliculitides; autoimmune skin diseases including Bullous skin disorders, especially dermatitis herpetiformis (Duhring's disease), and bullous pemphigoid; genodermatoses such as Darier's disease, and Hailey-Hailey disease; pregnancy-related skin diseases including polymorphic eruption of pregnancy (PEP, formerly known as PUPPP), atopic eruption of pregnancy, and pemphigoid gestationis; and neoplasias such as cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (especially the erythrodermic form).

Prurigo nodularis (PN), or nodular prurigo, is a particularly severe form of chronic itching that may treated by methods and compositions of the present invention. Characterized by itchy, excoriated, lichenified papules and nodules, PN can occur at any age, but most often presents in middle-aged and elderly patients on their arms and legs (E. Weisshaar and S. Ständer, Acta Derm. Venereol., 2012, 92:532-533). The etiology of PN is unknown, but it usually occurs in patients with a personal or family history of atopic dermatitis, and often with concomitant medical conditions such as hepatic or renal function, local trauma or insult to the skin, infection, and HIV or other immunodeficiencies. PN may result in permanent changes to the skin, including nodular lichenification, hyperkeratosis, hyperpigmentation, and skin thickening.

Therapeutic Administration and Doses

The terms “administration of” or “administering a” compound should be understood to mean providing a compound of the invention to the individual in need of treatment in a form that can be introduced into that individuals body in a therapeutically useful form and therapeutically effective amount, including, but not limited to, oral dosage forms, such as tablets, capsules, syrups, suspensions, and the like.

The terms “treat”, “treating” and “treatment” of chronic pruritus all refer to reducing the frequency of symptoms of acute or chronic pruritus (including eliminating them entirely), avoiding the occurrence of acute or chronic pruritus and/or reducing the severity of symptoms of acute or chronic pruritus.

The term “therapeutically effective amount” refers to a sufficient quantity of the compounds of the present invention, in a suitable composition, and in a suitable dosage form to treat the noted disease conditions. The “therapeutically effective amount” will vary depending on the compound, the severity of the condition causing the pruritus, and the age, weight, etc., of the patient to be treated.

The term “loading dose” refers to the amount of the compounds or compositions of the present invention that is often larger than subsequent doses, administered for the purpose of establishing a therapeutic level of the drug. More generally, a loading dose is the amount of Compound 1, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or solvate thereof, administered to a patient with pruritus given sometime after presentation but before initiation of one or more maintenance doses. Alternatively, a loading dose refers to one or a series of doses that may be given at the onset of therapy to achieve a target concentration of an active ingredient quickly.

The present methods for treatment of pruritus require administration of serlopitant, or a pharmaceutical composition containing serlopitant, to a patient in need of such treatment. The compound and/or pharmaceutical compositions are preferably administered orally. Various delivery systems are known, (e.g., encapsulation in liposomes, microparticles, microcapsules, capsules, etc.) can be used to administer a serlopitant compound and/or composition. The compound and/or pharmaceutical compositions may be delivered via sustained release dosage forms.

The amount of serlopitant, a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or solvate thereof, that will be effective in the treatment pruritus in a patient will depend on the specific nature of the condition, and can be determined by standard clinical techniques known in the art. In addition, in vitro or in vivo assays may optionally be employed to help identify optimal dosage ranges. The specific dose level for any particular individual will depend upon a variety of factors including the activity of the composition, the age, body weight, general physical and mental health, genetic factors, environmental influences, sex, diet, time of administration, route of administration, rate of excretion, and the severity of the pruritus being treated.

Preferably, the dosage forms are adapted to be administered to a patient three, two or one time a day. More preferably, a therapeutically effective amount is taken once per day. Alternatively, a dose may be taken every other day, every third day, every fourth day or once a week.

Doses may be taken at any time convenient to the patient. However, to minimize side effects such as dizziness or drowsiness, a daily dose may be taken at bedtime. NK-1 receptor antagonists have been shown to cause drowsiness in human clinical trials for uses other than treating pruritus. For example, Ratti at al. reported as much as a doubling in the incidence of somnolence vs. placebo in patients treated with casopitant for major depressive disorder (J. Clin. Psychopharmacol., 2011, 31:727-733). Somnolence was also seen in a similar clinical trial testing NK-1 receptor antagonist L-759274 as an anti-depressant (M. S. Kramer et al., Neuropsychopharm., 2004, 29:385-392). Thus, in one embodiment of the present invention, serlopitant is administered before the patient goes to bed.

Dosing may be provided alone or in combination with other drugs and may continue as long as required for effective treatment pruritus. For example, the compounds of the present invention may be administered in combination with another substance that has a complimentary effect to the tachykinin and substance P inhibitory effect of the present invention. Appropriate compounds include other NK-1 receptor antagonists such as, but not limited to, casopitant (GW679769), L-759274, L-733060, CP122,721, BIIF 1149CL, DNK333, M516102, ezlopitant, rolapitant, orvepitant, LY-686017, lanepitant (LY-303870), maropitant, vestipitant, vofopitant, aprepitant, fosaprepitant, AV-818, and TA-5538.

Dosage ranges of compounds of the present invention for oral administration may be stated in terms of amount of drug administered per time period. A certain amount of active ingredient may be given one or more times a day as appropriate according to the factors described above. For example, doses may be taken once a day, twice a day, three times a day, four times a day, or more. Suitable dosages range from about 0.1 mg to about 30 mg, and preferably, from about 1 mg to about 7.5 mg. Suitable dosages are typically 0.10 mg, 0.15 mg, 0.20 mg, 0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, 0.75 mg, 1 mg, 2 mg, 2.5 mg, 3 mg, 4 mg, 5 mg, 6 mg, 7 mg, 8 mg, 9 mg, 10 mg, 15 mg, 20 mg, 25 mg, 30 mg, 35 mg, 40 mg, 50 mg, 100 mg or 200 mg one or more times a day. Preferably, a dose of 0.25 mg, 1 mg or 5 mg is administered once a day.

Alternatively, suitable dosage ranges of compounds of the present invention for oral administration are generally about 0.001 mg to about 500 mg of drug per kilogram body weight, preferably from about 0.1 mg to about 200 mg of drug per kilogram body weight, and more preferably about 1 to about 100 mg/kg-body wt. per day. Dosage ranges may be readily determined by methods known to the skilled artisan. The amount of active ingredient that may be, for instance, combined with carrier materials to produce a single dosage form will vary depending upon the patient treated and the particular mode of administration. Dosage unit forms will generally contain between about 0.25 mg to about 500 mg of active ingredient.

In cases in which longer-term persistence of active drug is desirable, for example but not limited to, in the treatment of chronic pruritus, a dosing schedule is used where a loading dose is administered, followed by either (i) a second loading dose, or doses, and a maintenance dose (or doses), or (ii) a maintenance dose or doses, without a second loading dose, as determined to be appropriate by one skilled in the art. The schedule for administration of the loading and maintenance doses may be determined based upon the individual requirements of a particular patient. In one embodiment of the present invention, one loading dose is administered, followed by administration of a therapeutically effective maintenance dose after an appropriate interval, such as after one day. In another embodiment, a loading dose is administered on day 1, a second loading dose on day 2, and the maintenance dose is administered on day 3 and thereafter for the duration of therapy. The loading dose may be five, four, three or two times the maintenance dose. Preferably, the loading dose is three times the maintenance dose.

Determination of Therapeutic Effectiveness

The effectiveness of compositions of the present invention can be tested in experimental animal models of pruritus known to those skilled in the art. For example, various mouse models have been utilized to evaluate treatments for itching. Tsukumo et al. describe a model in which 4-ethoxymethylene-2-phenyl-2-oxazolin-5-one (oxazolone) induces chronic dermatitis with an associated itch response in BALB/c mice that can be used to determine whether an anti-pruritic treatment is effective (J. Pharmacol. Sci., 2010, 113:255-262). Costa et al. report a similar model in which Phoneutria nigriventer spider venom is used as the itch inducer (Vascul. Pharmacol., 2006, 45(4):209-14). Analogously, Ohmura et al. use picrylchloride in NC/Nga mice to stimulate scratching behavior (Eur. J. Pharmacol., 2004; 491:191-194). Essentially, itching is induced in the subject animal with an irritating agent, the test compound or a placebo is administered, and the animal observed under controlled conditions. Scratching behavior is quantified and analyzed using standard statistical techniques. A test compound is considered effective if either continuous or severe scratching is suppressed.

The efficacy of the methods and compositions of the present invention in the treatment of acute and chronic pruritus can also optionally be evaluated in human clinical trials conducted under appropriate standards and ethical guidelines as set forth by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). After the general safety of a drug is determined in Phase I clinical trials conducted in healthy volunteers, Phase II trials assessing the safety and efficacy of the drug in patients with the condition being treated are conducted. Typically, such trials are double-blinded and placebo-controlled, and may be dose-ranging. Phase III studies gather more information about safety and effectiveness by studying different populations and different dosages and by using the drug in combination with other drugs.

Because amelioration of pruritus is subject to a patient's own perceptions, it can be difficult to evaluate with typical clinical endpoints. However, two standardized assessment tools have been created and may be used in clinical trials demonstrating the utility of the present invention. The Visual Analog Scale (VAS) is the most commonly used tool to evaluate the intensity of pruritus (N. Q. Phan et al., Acta Derm. Venereal., 2012; 92:502-507). The VAS is a graphic tool with a 100-mm horizontal line with the left end labeled “no symptom” and the right end labeled “worst imaginable symptom”. The patient is asked to draw a vertical line to indicate the horizontal scale at a point that corresponded to the intensity of the symptom. The length from the left end to the vertical mark made by the patient is measured in millimeters. Separation in one-hundredths is regarded as sufficiently sensitive (R. C. Aitken, Proc. R. Soc. Med., 1969, 62:989-993). The results may be analyzed using standard statistical techniques known to those skilled in the art.

In addition to the VAS, the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) may be used to evaluate the efficacy of a chronic pruritus treatment. The DLQI, a self-administered general dermatology quality of life questionnaire, was originally developed and published in a dermatology clinic at University Hospital of Wales (A. Y. Finlay and G. K. Khan, Clin. Exper. Derm., 1994, 19:210-216). Independent studies have verified that the DLQI is an easy and efficient method for assessing quality of life in dermatology patients (H. B. Hahn et al., J. Am. Acad. Dermatol., 2001, 45(1):44-8). A current version of the simple, ten-question validated questionnaire, with instructions for use and scoring is available from the School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Wales, UK (world wide web URL dermatology.org.uk/quality/).

The following examples are offered by way of illustration and not by way of limitation.

EXAMPLES

All of the inactive pharmaceutical ingredients in the examples below comply with United States Pharmacopeia and The National Formulary requirements and are tested and released according to the monograph for each ingredient specified in the USP/NF compendium.

Example 1 Preparation of Serlopitant Tablets

Serlopitant, 3-[(3aR,4R,5S,7aS)-5-[(1R)-1-[3,5-bis(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]ethoxy]-4-(4-fluorophenyl)-1,3,3a,4,5,6,7,7a-octahydroisoindol-2-yl]cyclopent-2-en-1-one, Compound 1, may be formulated as a tablet for oral use. Table 1 shows the qualitative/quantitative composition of exemplary dosages. Minor variations in the excipient quantities (+/−10%) may occur during the drug development process.

TABLE 1 Components Function % of composition Compound 1 Active agent   1-6%   Microcrystalline cellulose Diluent   50-60%  Mannitol Diluent   20-30%  Croscarmellose Sodium Disintegrant   1-3%   Colloidal silica Disintegrant 0.25-0.5% Sodium Lauryl Sulfate Surfactant   5-6%   Magnesium Stearate Lubricant 0.25-2%   Total Tablet Composition 100%

Tablet potencies of 0.25, 1 and 5 mg are prepared as a compressed tablet formulation. The tablet manufacturing process is the same for all proposed potencies. The process consists of the following steps: 1) Compound 1, mannitol and sodium lauryl sulfate are blended; 2) the remaining mannitol is added to the blender and mixed; 3) microcrystalline cellulose, croscarmellose sodium, and colloidal silica are added to the blender containing the mixture above to complete the mixing and the blend is de-agglomerated if necessary; 4) the blend is lubricated with magnesium stearate which has been previously screened, if necessary; 5) the lubricated blend is roller compacted and milled, and then lubricated with magnesium stearate, which has been previously screened, if necessary; and 6) the mixture is then compressed into tablets of the appropriate weight.

Example 2 Preparation of Serlopitant Capsules

Serlopitant (Compound 1) may also be supplied to the clinic as liquid-filled capsules. Table 2 shows the qualitative/quantitative composition of exemplary dosages. Minor variations in the excipient quantities (+/−10%) may occur during the drug development process.

TABLE 2 Unit Strength Components Function 0.25 mg 1 mg 4 mg Capsule Fill Compound 1 Active agent 0.25 mg 1 mg 4 mg Mono- & Solubilizer 399 mg 398.6 mg 395.6 mg Di-glycerides Butylated Antioxidant 0.40 mg 0.40 mg 0.40 mg Hydroxyanisole Capsule Shell #0 White Capsule shell 96 mg** 96 mg** 96 mg** Opaque Hard Gelatin Capsule* Gelatin*** Banding — — — component Polysorbate Banding — — — 80*** component *Capsules are provided by Capsugel (Morristown, NJ) and contain gelatin and titanium dioxide **Approximate weight of empty capsule shell ***As needed to seal the capsule shells

The formulation is prepared by dissolving the drug substance in mono- and di-glycerides. Furthermore, 0.1 wt % butylated hydroxyanisole is added as an antioxidant. Initial capsule strengths are dispensed into hard gelatin capsules and sealed by spraying with a 1:1 (wt/wt) water:ethanol solution. Subsequent potencies including 0.25, 1, and 4 mg are dispensed into hard gelatin capsules and sealed with a band of gelatin/polysorbate 80. Corresponding placebo formulations are prepared in a similar manner, but without the addition of the drug substance and the antioxidant.

The capsule manufacturing process is the same for all potencies. The process consists of the following steps: 1) the mono- and di-glycerides excipient is melted at 40° C., if necessary; 2) the mono- and diglycerides are added to an appropriately sized, jacketed vessel and mixing is initiated; 3) the butylated hydroxyanisole is added to the mono- and di-glycerides and mixed until dissolved (minimum of 10 min); 4) Compound 1 is slowly added to the mixture and mixed until dissolved (visual confirmation); 5) the solution is filled into hard gelatin capsules; 6) the filled capsules are sealed with a mixture of gelatin and polysorbate 80; 7) the sealed capsules are allowed to dry overnight and then the capsules are visually inspected for leaking; 8) the acceptable capsules may be weighed sorted, if necessary; and 9) the finished product is then packaged in appropriate containers.

Example 3 Clinical Study of Serlopitant in Chronic Pruritus

A well-controlled human clinical trial testing the efficacy of three dosages of serlopitant in the treatment of chronic pruritus is conducted in accordance with the ICH Guidelines for Good Clinical Practices, the U.S. Code of Federal Regulations, the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), and any local regulatory requirements. The study is a Phase II randomized, double-blind, parallel group, placebo-controlled, multicenter trial designed to test the efficacy and safety of several doses of serlopitant versus placebo in patients with chronic pruritus. The study patient population includes adult, males or females, 18 to 72 years of age. The patients must be previously diagnosed with chronic pruritus caused by any etiology, except uremia, hepatic failure, cancer or cancer therapy, with chronic pruritus defined as greater than 6 weeks of itching and a VAS score of greater than 7.

Patients are randomized to receive either placebo or one of three doses of active agent. Patients take active drug or placebo once daily by mouth for a total of 2 to 8 weeks. The maximum study duration for each subject is approximately 14 weeks and includes a screening period of up to 2 weeks, a treatment period of 2-8 weeks, and a follow-up period of up to 4 weeks. The study parameters are summarized in Table 3.

TABLE 3 Study Title: Phase II Study of Serlopitant In Patients with Chronic Pruritus Development Phase: Phase II Study Objectives: Dose finding, efficacy and safety Study Design: Multicenter, double blind, parallel group, dose finding Sample Size: 80-240 subjects evaluable for analysis Study Population: Patients with chronic pruritus (over 6 weeks duration) unresponsive to standard treatment Investigational Oral daily tablet Product: Dosage and frequency: Day 1: loading dose of 3 times of drug dose (0.25 mg, 1 mg, or 5 mg), followed by Drug A, Drug B, or Drug C Drug A: 0.25 mg serlopitant daily for 2 to 8 weeks Drug B: 1 mg serlopitant daily for 2 to 8 weeks Drug C: 5 mg serlopitant daily for 2 to 8 weeks Reference Product(s): None Control Product(s): Matching placebo daily for 2 to 8 weeks Efficacy Evaluation Efficacy is measured daily by patient diary. Criteria: Patients record pruritus level on a 10 point VAS scale. Clinical response is measured by a change in VAS score between the active agent and the placebo. Secondary endpoints will include measures of the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI), lesion healing, and patient and physician global assessments. Safety Evaluation All local and systemic adverse events observed Criteria: by or reported to the investigators are evaluated. The intensity, duration, and causal relationship to the study product are rated for all adverse events. Statistical Methods: The primary study endpoint is the difference in VAS score at baseline and on treatment between placebo and active agent. Study Sites: Multicenter

Additional clinical trials according to a similar design may be conducted to test different dosage levels of the active ingredient or to differentiate between optimal doses or dosing schedules. Further, the efficacy of the drug in specific populations, such as the elderly, children, or patients with uremia, hepatic failure, cancer or patients undergoing cancer therapy, may be determined in additional clinical trials conducted in a similar fashion.

All publications and patent applications mentioned in this specification are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication or patent application were specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference.

From the foregoing it will be appreciated that, although specific embodiments of the invention have been described herein for purposes of illustration, various modifications may be made without deviating from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, the invention is not limited except as by the appended claims. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A method of treating chronic pruritus, said method comprising orally administering 3-[(3aR,4R,5S,7aS)-5-[(1R)-1-[3,5-bis(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]ethoxy]-4-(4-fluorophenyl)-1,3,3a,4,5,6,7,7a-octahydroisoindol-2-yl]cyclopent-2-en-1-one or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or solvate thereof to a patient in need of such treatment according to a schedule, said schedule comprising: a) first administering at least one loading dose; and b) second administering at least one therapeutically effect maintenance dose; said maintenance dose is administered chronically and comprises a dosage from about 0.1 mg to about 7.5 mg.
 2. The method according to claim 1, wherein the loading dose is five times, four times, three times, or two times the maintenance dose.
 3. The method according to claim 2, wherein the loading dose is three times the maintenance dose.
 4. The method according to claim 1, wherein the loading dose is administered on day 1 and the maintenance dose is administered on day 2 and thereafter.
 5. The method according to claim 1, wherein the loading dose and the maintenance dose are administered at bedtime.
 6. The method according to claim 1, further comprising administering a second loading dose prior to administering the maintenance dose.
 7. The method according to claim 6, wherein the loading dose is three times the maintenance dose and the second loading dose is two times the maintenance dose.
 8. The method of claim 1, wherein the therapeutically effective maintenance dose comprises a dosage of 0.25 mg, 1 mg, or 5 mg administered once a day.
 9. The method of claim 1, wherein the therapeutically effective maintenance dose is administered once a day, once every other day, once every third day, once every fourth day, or once a week. 